Almost 200 individuals were tested for the early signs of prostate cancer at an event hosted by the Rotary Club of Teignmouth in January.

Just over 10% of those tested were advised to seek further investigation following the tests, which were conducted at Teignmouth Rugby Club.

‘While none of the results were extremely high, several indicate the possibility of very early-stage prostate cancer,’ a spokesperson from Teignmouth Rotary said. ‘Early detection is crucial and events like this often identify cases in men who have no symptoms at all.’

Of the 190 PSA tests carried out: 135 were green, meaning there were no immediate concerns; 30 were amber, which means individuals need closer monitoring with a retest recommended in 6 months; and 25 were red, where men were advised to contact their GP for further investigation.

‘Based on previous experience, between 4% and 8% of those tested at similar events are later diagnosed with prostate cancer,’ the Rotary Teignmouth spokesperson revealed.

The community health initiative was supported by Torbay Prostate Support Association chair Ian Nightingale and Wendy Symons from the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust who attended with her team of nurses to carry out the testing.

Local businesses including Binfield Insurance Brokers, Teign Accountancy Services, Addicott Electricals and Scott Richards Solicitors each donated £260 to subsidise the cost of the tests. An additional £200 was donated by the Dawlish Church Group.

‘The Rotary Club of Teignmouth is proud to have facilitated an event that may lead to early diagnosis and treatment for several local men,’ the Rotary Teignmouth spokesperson commented. ‘The Club remains committed to supporting community health and raising awareness of prostate cancer, which remains one of the most common cancers affecting men in the UK.’